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Stockton council weighs veterans memorial move, DOT resurfacing grant and zoning coverage
Summary
Council discussed whether to relocate the Veterans Memorial after a change of use at the former firehouse, reviewed a DOT resurfacing grant for Bridge Street and Railroad Avenues with potential parking improvements, and approved planning for a Community Day. Residents asked about shared zoning services.
Stockton Borough Council on May 18 discussed several local projects and community matters, including options for the town’s Veterans Memorial, a state-funded road resurfacing project and shared zoning coverage.
Veterans memorial: Mayor Aaron Lipsen reported the former Stockton Fire Company building will become a wellness center and craft market; the fire company plans to move the Firepersons’ Memorial to Delaware Township but not the Veterans Memorial. The property’s new owner agreed to protect the Veterans Memorial but not maintain it. Councilmembers Brander, Gilinger and Fisher expressed support for relocating the Veterans Memorial to Stockton Playground Park to consolidate remembrance sites. Council asked the public works advisor for a cost estimate to move or maintain the memorial and to return options to a future meeting.
Roads and DOT grant: Mayor Lipsen said the state Department of Transportation accepted Stockton’s ordinance to lower the weight limit on Bridge Street and awarded a grant to resurface Bridge Street and both Railroad Avenues. The engineer recommended completing Bridge Street resurfacing in the first phase and using an additional year to explore right-of-way options with the D&R Canal Commission to improve parking on Railroad Avenues, including possible angled parking, curb and crosswalk improvements, and differently colored pavement for crosswalks.
Zoning and representation: During public comment, resident Eileen Foley asked whether Stockton will be adequately represented by the shared Lambertville zoning officer. Mayor Lipsen replied Stockton chose the Lambertville officer after interviews and said the officer "is nearby in the office four days a week," noting Stockton residents may need appointments when the officer is out.
Community Day and other items: Council approved planning for a tentative Stockton Community Day at the Playground Park that could include a flag-raising and bench dedications. The council also reported the New Jersey Historic Trust accepted Stockton’s Preservation Plan application (a positive step toward potential funding for Stockton School preservation).
What happens next: Council requested cost estimates for moving the Veterans Memorial and asked the engineer to prepare a resolution for the Bridge Street DOT project for the next meeting.
